Hampton battles potholes

The Virginia Department of Transportation is not alone in fighting potholes. Cities are waging their own battles as the road craters continue to appear as spring begins.

Hampton estimated last week it has spent close to $200,000 on pothole repairs. It said it appears that the amount of potholes has tapered off in recent days.

According to a city news release, two city work crews and a contract crew are prioritizing patching anything larger than 12x12x2 inches deep. The news release said someone goes out each morning to check complaints.

Residents can report potholes by dialing 727-8311 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., seven days per week.

Gas prices dip in Hampton Roads

AAA reports after gas prices surged earlier this winter motorists are beginning to see a little relief. The price of fuel has fallen steadily throughout March from the 2013 peak of $3.64 to an average of $3.54 .

AAA noted however that crude oil prices have posted gains recently because of positive economic news. But the auto club said traders are still cautious because of "economic instability in the eurozone" especially after the massive bailout package for Cyprus. "When economies weaken overseas, the dollar strengthens and the price of oil becomes relatively more expensive," the auto club said in a news release. "Oil futures subsequently become a less attractive investment, which is expected to exert downward pressure on prices," the auto club also noted.

"Nationally and locally, we are seeing a steady decrease in gas prices," said Georjeane Blumling, spokesman for AAA Tidewater Virginia. "Hopefully, it will continue to decline and give motorists reprieve at the pumps."

Heuer makes appearance at HRTPO

The Hampton Roads Transportation Planning Organization's board meeting was packed on Thursday, standing room only in the Chesapeake offices.

But among the people in the general audience was former VDOT Hampton Roads Administrator Dennis Heuer. Heuer resigned in February after public scrutiny of VDOT's management of the contractor in charge of maintaining I-264.

But Heuer was all smiles chatting with attendees of the board meeting and exchanged business cards. He received warm handshakes and pats on the back from a few people. Heuer declined to talk with the Daily Press.

Contact Bogues at 757-247-4536 or abogues@dailypress.com For more transportation news visit dailypress.com/streetsmart